KUALA LUMPUR – Tony Lim, the food and beverage entrepreneur behind popular restaurant chains BananaBro and Boat Noodle, has died.
His death was announced today through the official social media pages of both restaurant brands. However, his age and cause of death were not disclosed.
In an Instagram post, BananaBro said Lim, 47, had a vision of introducing banana leaf rice to the world, which eventually led to the establishment of the restaurant chain.
“Tony gave more than just his vision. He gave his heart to the people and the journey he believed in. Though he is no longer with us, his dream lives on in every banana leaf we serve and every life he has touched,” the restaurant said.
It also paid tribute to his passion and generosity, saying his legacy would continue through the business and the people whose lives he had touched.
Boat Noodle, in a separate Facebook post, described Lim as a dreamer and mentor who built the brand while placing genuine trust in the people working alongside him.
“He taught us to never give up, to believe in ourselves, and most importantly, to grow together. These were never just words to Tony. They were something he lived by,” it said.
The restaurant also thanked Lim for his guidance, belief in his team and the legacy he had left behind.
Boat Noodle currently operates 49 outlets nationwide, while BananaBro has more than 40 branches across the country. – November 2, 2026